Arlington silences the Second Amendment

ARLINGTON — Gun-rights activists who petitioned the Arlington City Council on Tuesday to strike down an ordinance that they say restricts their freedom of speech were stunned to find their public speaking time limited.

Several members of the Tarrant County chapter of Open Carry Texas were also upset when Arlington police would not let them bring pre-1899 black powder pistols or replica pistols — which they are allowed to carry openly under state law — into the council chamber.

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Last month, police ticketed two group members for handing out pamphlets and pocket-size U.S. Constitutions at Collins Street and Road to Six Flags near the Lincoln Square shopping center. Police said Wood and Mason Yancy violated an ordinance prohibiting anyone from standing or walking on street corners, sidewalks and medians to hand out literature or other items to people in vehicles that are not legally parked.

Open Carry Tarrant County wanted to voice its concerns during the nontelevised public participation portion set aside at the end of council meetings. Typically, each public speaker is granted two minutes.

In total, 11 speakers addressed the council during the group’s allotted 30 minutes.

The city attorney’s office and Police Department are reviewing the ordinance. Council members could not respond to speakers during the public participation portion because the topic was not legally posted on the agenda.

Open Carry Texas’ mission includes lobbying legislators to enact less-restrictive gun laws, educating residents about their right to openly carry shotguns and rifles safely, and helping the public feel comfortable around those who do. Open Carry Tarrant County has held numerous demonstrations around businesses and public places throughout the county since last year.